Fraud Awareness Month: Emergency-Grandparent Scam

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    This Fraud Awareness Month, the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) is warning the public on scams that target seniors. In these scams, fraudsters call and pretend to be a family member in distress, the police or a justice official claiming that a loved one or grandchild is in trouble, and needs money immediately. Victims are told there’s a gag order, and can’t speak to anyone.

    Protect yourself! Fraudsters may:

    • Call demanding immediate payment for bail, or fines to avoid going to jail. Remember: the counters won’t ask for cash to bail out someone in custody, and will require people to be present in court.
    • Claim to be a lawyer, police or family member in an emergency situation demanding funds. Be suspicious of calls that require immediate action. Hang up! Call your local police and contact the family member directly.
    • Request cash and send couriers for pick up, or demand the victim send cash by courier services or via cryptocurrency. Never send cash, cryptocurrencies or any other funds to unknown persons, unverified addresses or bank accounts.

    If you believe you have been scammed, contact your local police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre: 1 (888) 495-8501 / antifraudcentre.ca.

    Follow the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) on social media and visit their website for fraud prevention information. Don’t forget to use #FPM2023 on all fraud prevention posts!

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